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�鶹��ý’s School of Fashion is globally recognized for its exceptional programming. The school provides opportunities for students to apply their skills in real-world settings. But, it takes awareness and nerve for students to recognize a golden opportunity to showcase those skills. Jesus Baldrich, a sophomore fashion merchandising major, saw one such chance and took it.

On Sept. 23, Baldrich attended an online Fashion Fundamentals class where D’angelo Thompson joined to talk about his experiences as a Daytime Emmy Award-Winning  Hairstylist (2010-2011) and a Daytime Emmy Nominated for Guest Hair and Makeup (2009-2010/ 2010-2011) (Wendy Williams Show). After asking Thompson several questions during class, Baldrich bravely reached out to Thompson the same day to ask about any upcoming opportunities. The result was better than Baldrich imagined.  

Thompson, an adjunct instructor for Kent State New York City Fashion, invited Baldrich to do hair for the KSU x IFA Paris fashion show. By Oct. 17, Baldrich was living the dream in New York City.  

“It was so cool getting to be behind the scenes,” Baldrich told Kent State Today. “Everyone was amazing to work with.”

Following a successful KSU x IFA Paris fashion show, Thompson then asked Baldrich to return to New York in late October to do hair for a commercial and two music videos, one of which was released on Jan. 3 during the premiere of Season 17 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Baldrich styled hair for the backup dancers of the “Give and Take” music video, starring Monet Exchange, one of the previous winners of the show.

These chances aren’t easy. They take courage. They require hard work. But they can pay off.

“I had a choice to go back to working at the salon or try this crazy adventure of going to fashion school,” Baldrich said. “I’m glad I did it because even though it’s been one of the hardest adjustments of my life, it has also been the most rewarding.”

Baldrich and his work will also be featured in upcoming projects being released this year. 

Baldrich has been doing hair for over 10 years, specializing in coloring and bridal hairstyling, including working as a hair school teacher. In 2023, Baldrich was nominated for Colorist of the Year by Hair and the Blog, an online networking platform for individuals in the beauty industry.  

“I feel like New York showed me how ready I am for this life,” Baldrich said. “To think that I have not been riding sky high the past few years, I’m so grateful to say that I’m starting to see the clouds.”

Baldrich encourages students to pursue their dreams with confidence and take risks.

“Take advantage of every opportunity you have because you never know what is going to happen,” Baldrich said. “Dreams come true.”

Learn more about The School of Fashion.